By Ivana Johnston, Co-founder and CEO of Puzzle Partner
Ever noticed how a good night’s sleep can make or break a trip? Well, the savviest hotels sure have. They’re not just fluffing pillows anymore; they’re pulling out all the stops, using the latest tech to ensure you get those much-needed Zs.
The idea of sleep tourism is growing faster than you might think. According to HTF Market Intelligence, we’re looking at an impressive growth of nearly 8%, adding over $400 billion by 2028. That’s right—hotels worldwide are pulling out all the stops for our bedtime routines. Picture this: serene settings, cutting-edge sleep technology, and even take-home resources to keep that good sleep vibe going. And the cost for these dreamy experiences ranges from $300 to a luxurious $2,500.
Many luxury resorts are luring us with sleep studies as part of their wellness services. Imagine: sleep tracking gadgets, consultations with sleep doctors, and even sleep apnea tests—all wrapped up in a wellness package.
So, let’s look at how the wellness, travel, and hospitality industries are embracing this trend.
Sleepless in Seattle—and Everywhere Else
Remember Sleepless in Seattle? It was a fun romcom with Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. But sleeplessness everywhere else? Not so charming.
According to the McKinsey Future of Wellness, 47% of people prioritize better health, while 45% place better sleep as a “very high priority.” It is also the area where consumers say they have the most unmet needs.Let’s talk some stats:
- Rising Consumer Interest: Sleep is crucial, with 62% of adults believing good rest impacts well-being (Global Wellness Institute).
- Demand for Sleep Products: The sleep aids market, including supplements and gadgets, hit $74.3B in 2022 and will grow to $124.9B by 2030 (CAGR of 6.8%).
- Unmet Needs: Huge growth potential remains as 1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep (CDC).
- Consumer Demographics: Millennials and Gen Z are keen on sleep products, with 53% of Millennials and 64% of Gen Z willing to invest in better sleep (Statista).
Getting a good night’s sleep is influenced by many factors, which makes it challenging for tech companies and new brands to create a comprehensive solution. But where there’s complexity, there’s opportunity. Let’s dive into some of the innovative examples out there:
- Carillon Miami Wellness Resort offers a state-of-the-art sleep therapy program featuring electromagnetic and infrared tech, floating bath soaks, and a meditation pod.
- Equinox Hotels at Hudson Yards, New York, boasts the Art + Science of Sleep program, complete with “Sleep IV-Drips,” an extensive spa menu, and personalized sleep coaching.
- The Park Hyatt New York pampers guests with exclusive sleep suites designed for ultimate rest.
- Canyon Ranch in Tucson offers a Mastering Sleep Retreat.
- JW Marriott Tampa Water Street’s Stay Well Rooms come equipped with circadian mood lighting.
- Top-tier destinations like Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Hôtel de Crillon in Paris, Six Senses Ibiza and Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa in France are all enhancing their sleep offerings.
- Some Hilton locations now provide “power down” amenities such as temperature-adjustable mattresses and dimming light settings.
- Conrad Bali offers a unique SWAY experience, where you float in cocoon hammocks for a 60-minute sleep therapy session.
- Zedwell, London’s first sleep-centric hotel, features windowless, mood-lit rooms designed for ultimate peaceful slumber.
- Westin Washington, D.C. Downtown teams up with sleep expert Dr. Whitney Roban to tackle the “First Night Effect.”
- Sofitel has launched a scientific study with European sleep scientists to address travel-related sleep issues like jet lag and restless nights.
Embracing the Tech-Driven Future of Wellness Travel
Wellness-focused travel is trending, and the hospitality industry’s biggest players are going all in. They’re using the latest sleep technologies to make us more comfortable. It’s not just about sleeping well; it’s about waking up refreshed, happy, and ready to rave about your stay. Let’s shine a spotlight on some sleep-tech trailblazers.
WaverBed has introduced the WaverMat, a touch-free gravity wave treatment for hotel spas. This technology addresses common travel issues like fatigue, jet lag, and sleep problems. WaverMat sessions last just 30 minutes, catering to the 93% of travelers who suffer from jet lag. WaverMat toppers can convert any standard table into a high-tech WaverBed station, enhancing revenue potential. Offering WaverMat services after hours increases profitability with minimal staff. Selling WaverBed units for home use opens a lucrative retail channel for spas without inventory management or shipping hassles.
Crowne Plaza Atlanta Airport has embraced the Journi Mobile Task Light as bedside lamps and Soraa Healthy “zero blue” bulbs. These bulbs cut down melatonin-disrupting light by 40% compared to usual LEDs, ensuring a restful stay.
Timeshifter, an app designed to mitigate the effects of travel on the circadian rhythm, offers personalized plans based on travel schedules and individual sleep patterns. In collaboration with InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, the app aims to reduce jet lag and enhance guest well-being. Another InterContinental update is in select guest rooms which now feature designs by neuroscience expert Isabelle Sjövall, incorporating tones, textures, lighting, and nature to help guests unwind.
Takeaways
Sleep tourism and the growing desire to catch up on our shut-eye tap into a broader trend of enhanced health and wellbeing. And let’s be honest – there’s no better time to prioritize sleep than when you’re on vacation. Companies, especially in the hotel and travel sector who invest in sleep-centered wellness solutions that are tailored, relevant, and backed by science, will have a winning edge. Using the latest advancements to fight jet lag and travel fatigue, and by focusing on guest comfort, hotels can stand out – ensuring guests can’t wait to return for another dreamy stay.
